Welcome to Bastion: The Medieval Playground
Picture a room where the walls are drenched in swords, poles, and shields, and hear the clash of ancient steel as black‑eyed warriors duel. Think “Game of Thrones” meets “Lord of the Rings,” except it’s happening right in the heart of Singapore, not on a distant island. That’s exactly what Bastion – a Hema sword‑fighting academy tucked inside a nondescript building near Marymount MRT – offers.
What’s Hema Anyway?
Hema stands for Historical European Martial Arts – the real, not‑made‑up, rules that medieval knights followed to master weaponry. Instead of munching on fantasy tropes, Hema practitioners study authentic medieval treatises. These dusty little books were the knight’s own training manuals, designed to help them win duels and defend their realms a few hundred years ago. So, if you’re into “heavy metal” and a good dose of history, you’re in for something that’s as fun as it is authentic.
Why Singapore’s Students Love It
- Real‑World Arsenal: Swords, polearms, shields – all handled with the same etiquette that real knights used. No batteries, just pure steel.
- A Thrilling Community: Over 250 students have forged their way through Bastion’s halls since 2017. That’s a whole squad of modern-day warriors learning to swing a blade with the finesse of Aragorn (or perhaps Geralt, if you’re a Witcher fan).
- From Larp to Swordsmanship: Singapore Larp’s founder, Din, takes his sword‑ballad from the tabletop to the real world by swapping his role‑playing voice for a proper grip. He’s a prime example of how the academy connects adventure lovers with legitimate combat training.
How Bastion Got Started
The dream team behind Bastion – Lucien Lee and Langley Qu – discovered their passion for Hema while studying in Swansea, Wales. Returning to Singapore in 2016, they sought out kindred spirits on Reddit, set up casual “void deck” workshops, and eventually opened their full‑blown academy. Their goal? To create a place where the magic of medieval combat isn’t just a story but an everyday practice.
Inside the Academy
- Historical Treatise: Every lesson is rooted in the homework of centuries‑old scholars.
- Practical Application: Students don’t just read – they actually channel their inner swordsmen, flipping and twirling with precision.
- Atmosphere That Inspires: The walls are lined with rusted relics, and the air hums with steel, letting you feel like an ancient warrior without needing portals.
If you’re ready to switch from scrolling fantasy to swinging a blade, Bastion’s doors are open. Grab a sword, channel your inner Aragorn, and let history’s most lethal teamwork get your heart racing. The only thing you’ll miss is the battlefield’s heat – because over here, the thunder of steel makes the day just a bit brighter.
I want to fulfill my secret dream of being a sword-wielding hero! How should I begin?
Unlock Your Sword‑Playing Skills in 12 Weeks!
Ready to face a sword without a black belt? Our 12‑week basics and safety bootcamp will bring you from a complete beginner to a confident swordsman—no prior martial arts experience required!
What You’ll Get Out Of It
- Easy‑to‑learn footwork that feels more like dancing than fighting.
- Simple attack and defense strategies you can run on your feet in minutes.
- Hands‑on sparring that starts in week 5, paced just right for safety.
- Full confidence in your sword‑handling by the end of the course.
Week‑by‑Week Breakdown
Week 1‑4: Footwork Foundations
- We introduce Hema—the art of sword fighting—while honing your balance.
- Every movement is broken into bite‑size steps so you can master the basics without tripping.
- Feel the rhythm: it’s like learning to walk on a tightrope, but you’re actually safe.
Week 5‑12: Sparring & Sword Play
- From week 5 onward, we roll into controlled sparring.
- Our masters guide you in safely attacking and defending, ensuring you can wield a sword confidently.
- By the final class, you’ll be swinging a sword like a pro—only with a lot more safety.
We’ve Got Everyone Covered
No matter your size, age, or fitness level, our course is built for everybody. We’re a community of people who share the same goal: learning sword skills without feeling like you’re over‑earning your adrenaline.
Interested? Check out our latest Instagram peek:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CXpfu8IlQnt/
Is there a minimum age?
Class Age Rules
We set the bar at 14 years old for enrolling kids. But hey, the rules are flexible—if a younger student shows serious enthusiasm, we’ll consider them on a case‑by‑case basis.
- Parents in the Mix: Wanna jump in with your little one? We absolutely welcome that—family workouts are a blast!
- Family Fun: Many parents enroll together with their kids, siblings, or even couples. The whole crew can crush the workout together!
So if you’re eager to get moving with your loved ones—just give us a shout and we’ll see how we can make it happen.
Since Hema is essentially from Europe, are there different styles depending on the country of origin?
Fencing Frenzy at Bastion
Looking to slice your way into history? Bastion blends German swordcraft with a splash of European flair, all served up in lively workshops that keep the calendar buzzing.
The Rotating Roster (Every Three Months)
- Messer – A single‑handed blade that feels like a medieval kitchen knife, but far more lethal.
- Sword & Buckler – Classic duelist combo: a sword in one hand, a tiny shield in the other. Talk about style points.
- Longsword – Two‑hand power, perfect for mastering sweeping chops and parry combos.
- Super Long Polearm – Think of it as a giant “reach‑out” weapon that lets you keep the heat at a safe distance.
Each quarter the academy swaps the system, so students are constantly getting fresh challenges. It’s a speed‑run through medieval weaponry that mixes skill with a little bit of drama.
And because we love variety, we also host European combat workshops all year round. Whether you’re a Messer master or a longsword whiz, Bastion keeps the excitement alive.
What is the best part about Hema?
Why We Stuck Around—The Real Reason Behind the Community Vibe
It’s not just about picking an activity you love—
- Finding Something That Makes Your Brain Dance: We get pumped when we discover a class or hobby that lights our passion.
- Meeting Your New Crew: Once you’re into the routine, the real magic happens when you meet people who share that spark.
Every day, we see friendships blooming. That, to me, is the true engine that keeps folks coming back. The first reason people join is the structure and the learning framework—the solid foundation of the program. The second reason? The human connection. It’s the “because we laugh together” part that builds that “bastion” of support. That’s how our community came to life—and it’s a place people don’t just stay, they thrive.
What are some of the challenges you faced setting up this academy?
Ever One Step Ahead?
Just as the world was grabbing for its toes in the pandemic, we found ourselves stepping back a few feet. We had to shrink our classroom vibes from a bustling campus to a cozy, almost clandestine gathering.
Hiring Big Names – From Europe to the East
Our original game plan? Bring household names from the “Hema” scene in Singapore and let them sprinkle their expertise over us. Think of it as a European pop‑star tour colliding with an Asian academy. How clever? How far‑fetched? The twist was that folks in Asia, especially in our own backyard, are as obsessed with Hema as their North‑American cousins became obsessed with coffee.
Proof of Passion
If you’re wondering how to show we’re more than just window‑shopping, we decide to hold contests at the end of every year, letting our own crew get a shot at the spotlight. The gift? A chance to flaunt what our hard rehearsals and coffee‑filled nights have given them.
Making the Future Electric
We’re not here just to haul big names over; we’re gearing up with fresh, eye‑-catching programs that everyone will talk about. If we’re not thinking of blowing up your calendar with fun, we’ll definitely be boring.
Because the future’s a playground, and we’re ready to swing on the swings!
How is the competition conducted?
Game On: Our Real‑Life, No‑Scorehead Tournament
We’re all about keeping things as street‑level as possible. That means no fancy grading systems or secret statistical analyses—just pure old‑school toe‑to‑toe fire.
Ten‑Pound, Five‑Life Rules
- Every fighter starts with 5 lives. Think of it as your own personal health bar.
- When the clock hits zero or your opponent gets wiped, the one with the highest life count walks away the victor.
- No extra credits or overtime. It’s all or nothing.
Beginners, We Got You
Last year, with our growing roster, we launched a beginner’s tournament—for anyone who’s spent less than a year in the game. Spoiler alert: some folks signed up straight after finishing their basics and safety course—right from the training room to the battleground!
So if you’re brand‑new, fresh‑from‑the‑basic‑class, this is the perfect stage to prove you’ve got what it takes.
Why It Matters
It’s all about realism—no scoreboard glamor, just a clean, brutal fight to see who really owns the ring. Bring your grit, keep your life count, and win on your own terms.
With so many beginners, what are some common misconceptions about Hema?
Why Your Fantasy Dreams Need a Reality Check
Ever walked into a workshop hoping to see giant, battle‑ready shields or Viking‑style armor whipping around like in those epic shows? It turns out the real deal is a lot less glamorous—and a lot more accurate.
Common Mythbusters
- “Why don’t we see massive shields?” – Shocking truth: real shields were lighter, more practical, and less likely to topple whole battle lines.
- “Where’s the Viking vibe?” – Historically, Vikings traded and adapted; they didn’t just throw off a cape and march.
- “Can we just invent cool stuff on the spot?” – Nope. Every technique, term, and tweak we use is pulled straight from authentic treatises.
The Genuine Goods
Our books are facsimiles of genuine medieval manuals. Think of them as museum-quality replicas—exactly how the original treasures looked, right down to the dust of centuries. No faking, no seasoning, just pure history.
What Makes It Real?
We’ve done three things:
- Research – Spent months digging through archives to capture every detail.
- Reproduction – Scratched, hammered, and polished according to the original specifications.
- Presentation – Decorated the pages with clear terminology, so you can actually read it like a pro.
Bottom Line
We’ve got the historical heart of the craft. No fantasy fluff, just real skills that survived through the ages. If you’re looking for a “real” stunt or a genuine lesson in weaponry, this is the spot. No giant shields, just honest, authentic tools—cool, right?
Wow, I’m sold! How much would it cost to learn Hema?
Kick, Lock, and Laugh: Your Guide to Our Martial Arts Packages
Start with a $10 Intro Session
Think of our first lesson as the opening scene of a blockbuster—a single‑class adventure that gives you a taste of Hema and sets the stage for a journey of kicks, twists, and newfound confidence.
Trial Package: Three Classes to Awaken the Warrior Inside
We know one session often feels like a teaser trailer. That’s why we’ve rolled out a trial bundle featuring three consecutive classes. Come feel the energy, learn the basics, and decide if you’re ready to commit to the full saga.
Commitment for the Serious Fans
- Squire Package – Six classes every month. Perfect for those who enjoy a steady rhythm of practice and progress.
- Knight Membership – Twelve sessions per month. Ideal for the warrior who’s ready to master techniques, build stamina, and maybe even earn a black belt by the summer.
All the Gear, None of the Hassle
Forget the excuses of lugging headgear or boots into your bag. We supply all weapons and protective gear – just show up in comfy, closed‑toe shoes and relaxed clothing. Your only gear needed is your enthusiasm!
Why Pick Us?
– Learn, laugh, repeat: Our instructor’s style blends solid technique with a friendly dose of humor to keep you engaged.
– Community vibe: You’re not just joining a class; you’re joining a family that celebrates every “Whoa!” moment and every kick struck.
– Flexibility: Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a daily student, the Squire or Knight packages fit your schedule like a pair of well‑chosen shoes.
Ready to Roll?
Enroll today and discover Hema isn’t just about martial prowess – it’s about confidence, camaraderie, and, let’s be honest, a chance to throw a punch in a safe environment. Get your gloves on and let the fun begin!
